Cold sore virus turned into cancer killer? early trial underway
NCT ID NCT04336241
First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This early-phase study tests a genetically modified herpes virus (RP2) in 36 adults with advanced solid tumors that have not responded to standard treatments. The virus is designed to infect and destroy cancer cells while also stimulating the immune system. Some participants also receive the immunotherapy drug nivolumab (Opdivo). The main goals are to find the safest dose and to watch for side effects.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
genetically modified herpes simplex virus (RP2) and nivolumab (Opdivo)
What this could lead to
If successful, this could point toward a new way to treat advanced solid tumors by using a virus to kill cancer cells and boost the immune system.
What could go wrong
This is a very early Phase 1 trial with only 36 people, focused on safety and dosing. It is too soon to know if it works, and side effects from the virus or immune response are possible.
Disclaimer
Read more
Show less
This is a summary of
the original study
.
Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for CANCER are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Show contact details
Enter your email to view the contact information for this study.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Locations
-
Churchill Hospital
Oxford, OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
-
Hospital Clinico de Valencia
Valencia, 46010, Spain
-
Hospital Universitario HM Sanchinarro
Madrid, 10 28050, Spain
-
Hospital Universitario d'Hebron
Barcelona, 119 08035, Spain
-
The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre NHS Foundation Trust
Bebington, Merseyside, CH63 4JY, United Kingdom
-
The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust
London, SW3 6JJ, United Kingdom